ACUTE TOXICITY (LD50) ASSESSMENT OF ETHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF (BRYOPHYLLUM PINNATUM)

ABSTRACT The increasing emphasis on natural products in toxicological research has prompted investigations into the safety profiles of various medicinal plants. This study evaluates the acute toxicity of the ethanolic leaf extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum, traditionally used in various herbal remedies. The assessment of acute toxicity was conducted using the Lethal Dose 50 (LD50) method in Swiss albino mice, which were administered varying doses of the extract. Behavioral changes, body weight variations, and mortality rates were monitored for 14 days post-administration. Histopathological examination of vital organs (liver, kidneys, and spleen) was conducted to assess any potential organ toxicity. The results indicated that the ethanolic leaf extract exhibited a low to moderate level of toxicity, with an estimated LD50 greater than 2000 mg/kg, suggesting a relatively safe profile at therapeutic doses. No significant behavioral alterations or severe organ damage were observed at lower doses. These findings support the traditional use of Bryophyllum pinnatum in herbal medicine, although caution is advised in regard to dosage. Further studies are essential to elucidate the pharmacological mechanisms and long-term effects of the extract. This research contributes valuable data to the safety evaluation of Bryophyllum pinnatum and emphasizes the need for rigorous toxicological assessments of herbal remedies.